Life is precious. Life is given by God. Life is an opportunity to be of service, to be helpful and kind. But, sometimes, some people can lose hope. Hope in humanity, in society, in worthwhile activities, in meaningful employment. Feelings can be fleeting, and deceitful, and hidden. Situations can be upended in a big hurry. Other people can be detrimental, fickle, and wayward. This leaves certain individuals with what they perceive as little reason to live, to continue, much less to thrive.

Psalm 139 tells us that God knew us even before we were born. God loves us, and cares for us. God wants the best for us. Sure, we are not promised an easy road through life. Some people have a more difficult time than others. But, that doesn’t mean that God hides from us, or just leaves us all alone with no one to help us out.

Some of my thinking behind A Year of Being Kind fits in, here. The verse for September is applicable, too: Galatians 6:2 “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” I wanted to come alongside of people, trying to do 365 Days of Service. I wanted to ease some people’s difficulties, and be of service. (Even more than I usually am, that is.) I find today, World Suicide Prevention Day, to be immensely significant. If you or someone you know are hurting today—or tomorrow, or next week, please consider calling the number above, or going to the websites listed above. Please.

God loves you. I do, too. God holds all of us in the hollow of God’s hand. And, we are all held close in the loving, caring embrace of the Lord.